20 charged in Greece over summer wildfire that killed 100

March 05, 2019 - 8:00 AM

ATHENS, Greece - Greek authorities have charged 20 people with negligence in connection with the country's deadliest wildfire in decades, which killed 100 and devastated the seaside town of Mati near Athens last year.

Court officials say the suspects include the greater Athens regional authority chief, two local mayors, the former civil protection head, and fire service officials.

Among the 20 charged Tuesday was a 65-year-old resident of an area near Mati, who had allegedly been burning garden waste on open ground from which the fire started.

The charges include manslaughter, causing grievous bodily harm through negligence and arson through negligence. They carry a maximum five-year prison sentence.

The wildfire broke out on July 23, and quickly swept through Mati to the sea.